Official press releases and photographs from Disney and Florida attractions.

Celebrity Guests Archives

March 25, 2014

Cast of ABC's "The Middle" Taping Season Finale at Walt Disney World

The cast of the ABC series "The Middle" (L-R): Eden Sher, Neil Flynn, Patricia Heaton, Atticus Shaffer (front right) and Charlie McDermott (back right), pose March 24, 2014 with Mickey Mouse in the Magic Kingdom. The cast is currently at Walt Disney World Resort to tape the show's season finale that will air May 21. "The Middle" airs Wednesday nights at 8/9c.

February 21, 2012

Kelly Clarkson Visits Walt Disney World

On Feb. 5, the Grammy Award-winning singer performed "The Star Spangled Banner" at the NFL championship game in Indianapolis. Just a few days later, her newest single - "Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)" - soared to the coveted number one spot on the "Billboard Hot 100" songs chart. Then, on Feb. 12 she joined country music artist Jason Aldean to perform their hit song, "Don't You Wanna Stay," during the 54th annual GRAMMY Awards telecast.

What did she do next? She went to Disney World!

Kelly joined family and friends in our theme parks yesterday, pausing for a moment to pose in the famed Magic Kingdom "Rose Garden" with a couple that knows a thing or two about roses - Belle and Beast. And from the looks of this snapshot, it seems that Belle, Beast and Kelly all enjoyed "A Moment Like This."

February 6, 2012

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (Feb. 6, 2012) - After leading his team to a game-winning drive and the Super Bowl championship Sunday night, New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning led another drive Monday: down Main Street, U.S.A. to cheering fans at Walt Disney World Resort.

"I'm going to Disney World!" proclaimed Manning Sunday shortly after his team scored a dramatic 21-17 win over the New England Patriots to capture Super Bowl XLVI in Indianapolis. In a gala parade Monday at Magic Kingdom, Manning made good on that promise, waving and smiling alongside Mickey Mouse from a red convertible in the shadow of Cinderella Castle.

Fans of the Giants and Manning, including those sporting team jerseys Monday, got to see their hero up-close in the place where memories are made. New York Giants balloons mixed in with red, white and blue balloons along the parade route, Mickey Mouse was joined by other Disney characters and confetti in the shape of the Lombardi Trophy (awarded to the NFL champion) rained down on the happy scene. Manning was joined in the Magic Kingdom by NFL Youth football players.

Manning - who was named the game's MVP - is no stranger to storybook finishes. Sunday's late, game-winning drive marked the seventh fourth-quarter comeback Manning led this season. His 15 fourth quarter touchdown passes set an NFL single-season record.

Manning's "I'm going to Disney World!" - anchoring one of TV's most enduring and iconic Super Bowl commercials - was captured seconds after the final whistle. Monday's visit marked his second "What's Next"?" appearance in the Disney commercial. In 2008, Manning was celebrated following the Giants' 17-14 upset win over the Patriots in Super Bowl XLII.

This latest commercial is the 45th in a series that began in 1987 following Super Bowl XXI. The first "I'm going to Disney World" commercial, featuring New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms, was regarded as a groundbreaking concept - a produced national commercial involving a current event, airing on major networks within hours of its conclusion. Manning again joined a lineup of people from sports and beyond who have celebrated milestone accomplishments in "I'm going to Disney World" commercials.

Eli Manning is Coming to Disney World!

Eli Manning is planning to come to Walt Disney World Resort!

Eli stared into a TV camera and shouted those famous words - "I'm going to Disney World!" It was the 45th time a superstar athlete or celebrity has screamed that line that will be part of the now iconic Super Bowl commercial airing nationally over the next several days.

Eli will be whisked to Walt Disney World Resort on Monday to toast the team's 21-17 win with a grand parade down Main Street, U.S.A., in Magic Kingdom Park. He will also interact with some NFL Youth kids and maybe experience an attraction or two, creating some lasting Disney memories just like millions of guests at Disney Parks all around the world. Then he'll jet back home where undoubtedly the Super Bowl celebrations will continue.

November 24, 2010

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!: Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!: Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas pose with their children, Dylan (left), age 10, and Carys (right), age 7, on Nov. 24, 2010, along with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in front of the Epcot theme park Christmas tree in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. The couple celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary on Nov. 18. Epcot is one of four theme parks at the Walt Disney World Resort. (Kent Phillips/Disney, photographer)

September 2, 2010

Cheech Marin Honored for Role in Cars

Actor Cheech Marin was recently presented with a diorama showcasing Cars die-cast toys to honor his role as Ramone, the popular low-rider in Disney/Pixar film, Cars. Since Cars opened in theaters in June 2006, more than 120 million die-cast Cars toys have been sold.

Cars 2 opens in theaters next summer; Disney Consumer Products will support the film with a very robust licensing program.

August 5, 2010

Teen Pop Star Jessica Jarrell at Disney

Teen pop star Jessica Jarrell poses Aug. 3, 2010 with Minnie Mouse at the Magic Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. For the occasion, Minnie Mouse even traded in her signature polka-dotted dress for one adorned with hearts. Jarrell, currently one of the opening acts on Justin Bieber's "My World" tour, visited the Walt Disney World Resort with friends and family.

April 10, 2010

Jay DeMarcus of "Rascal Flatts"

Jay DeMarcus (left) of the country music trio "Rascal Flatts," and his mother Caron Myers (right) pose April 9, 2010 with Pluto in front of Cinderella Castle at the Magic Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. DeMarcus took his mother to Walt Disney World to celebrate her 60th birthday.

April 7, 2010

Singer Darius Rucker and family at Magic Kingdom -- April 6, 2010

MAGIC CARPET RIDE

Singer/songwriter Darius Rucker (front, left) takes flight April 6, 2010 on the Magic Carpets of Aladdin attraction at the Magic Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. with daughter Dani, 9, (front, center), son Jack, 5, (front, right), daughter Cary, 14, (back, right) and family friend Rachel Herman, 15, (back, left). Rucker, former lead singer of the Grammy Award-winning band Hootie & The Blowfish, won "New Artist of the Year" at the 2009 Country Music Association Awards. Rucker is vacationing with his family at the Walt Disney World Resort.

March 15, 2010

I Wanna Dance with Somebody

Jake Pavelka (left), star of ABC's "The Bachelor," strikes a dance pose March 13, 2010 with his fiancee, Vienna Girardi (second from left) while Mickey Mouse poses with professional dancer Chelsie Hightower (right), star of ABC's "Dancing with the Stars," at the Magic Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Pavelka and Hightower are partners on the new season of "Dancing with the Stars" which premieres March 22, 2010. Pavelka, Girardi and Hightower were vacationing this weekend at Walt Disney World Resort.

March 1, 2010

CSI: Miami' star Eva La Rue at the Magic Kingdom

Actress Eva La Rue, star of the CBS series "CSI: Miami," and her daughter Kaya (left), age 8, pose March 1, 2010 with Minnie Mouse at the Magic Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Prior to joining the cast of "CSI: Miami," La Rue appeared on the ABC Daytime drama "All My Children."

February 27, 2010

Olympic Gold Medal-winning gymnast Shawn Johnson poses Feb. 27, 2010 with Minnie Mouse at Disney's Hollywood Studios in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Johnson, a past champion on ABC-TV's "Dancing with the Stars" series, was at Walt Disney World appearing at "ESPN The Weekend," a sports fan festival held annually at the theme park. She also was a special celebrity guest for the grand "re-launch" of the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

December 21, 2009

Whoopi Goldberg with Minnie Mouse at Epcot - Dec. 19, 2009

Emmy, Grammy, Tony, Golden Globe, NAACP Image and Academy award-winning actress and TV personality Whoopi Goldberg poses Dec. 19, 2009 with Minnie Mouse at Epcot. Goldberg, also a co-host on ABC's "The View," was at Epcot to be the featured celebrity narrator in the Candlelight Processional, a Disney Parks holiday tradition which combines a retelling of the Christmas story accompanied by a 50-piece live orchestra and a mass choir. Epcot is one of four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort. (Preston Mack, photographer)

November 20, 2009

ROCKING WITH GOOFY: Jon Bon Jovi visits Disney's Hollywood Studios

Singer Jon Bon Jovi poses with Goofy Nov. 16, 2009 on the New York Street backlot set at Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Bon Jovi and his band, who have sold more than 120 million records in a career that spans 26 years, released their newest album, "The Circle." The group will begin a world concert tour in early 2010.

October 1, 2009

Teri Hatcher, and James Denton, Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy Help Kick Off New Program

A DISNEY DAY: Walt Disney Company President and CEO, Robert Iger, Teri Hatcher, and James Denton, joined Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy Sept. 29, 2009 in Los Angeles, Calif., for the Disney Parks' announcement of the "Give a Day, Get a Disney Day" program for 2010.

September 19, 2009

Buzz Lightyear's return from space to be celebrated Oct. 2, 2009 at Walt Disney World Resort

Buzz Lightyear returned from space on Sept. 11, 2009 aboard space shuttle Discovery's STS-128 mission, having served as the longest-tenured crew member in space.

In a photo taken Sept. 11, 2009, the toy Buzz Lightyear that was sent into space May 31, 2008 aboard the STS-124 mission is posed in front of space shuttle Discovery on the runway at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif.

He will be celebrated in a ticker-tape parade together with his International Space Station crewmates and former Apollo 11 moonwalker Buzz Aldrin on Oct. 2, 2009 at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.

While on the space station, Buzz supported NASA's education outreach program - STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) by creating a series of fun educational online outreach programs.

To celebrate his return, Disney is partnering with NASA to create a new online educational game and an online mission patch competition for school kids across America. NASA will fly the winning patch into space. In addition, NASA plans to announce on Oct. 2 the details of a new exciting educational competition that will give students the opportunity to design an experiment for the astronauts on the space station.

August 26, 2009

Celebrities Add Star Power to the Online Forum with Vacation Tips and Exclusive Videos

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (Aug.24, 2009) - Looking to plan an unforgettable Walt Disney World vacation? Stars Joey Fatone of "Dancing with the Stars," Lisa Whelchel from "The Facts of Life" and Alfonso Ribeiro of "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" have teamed up with the Walt Disney World Moms Panel to share vacation planning tips in helpful, funny and practical "How-to" videos available at www.disneyworldmoms.com - home of the Moms Panel. From keeping up with their own little princesses to sharing personal in-park memories, these family-focused celebrities step in front of the camera to offer guests their favorite Disney tips.

"When we began filming the Walt Disney World Moms Panel celebrity videos, we never imagined how much Disney knowledge we would find - these stars definitely know how to have a good time at Disney," said Leanne Jakubowski, drector, Social Media. "Each star has a unique perspective on vacation planning and together with our Moms Panel we can offer even 'famous' insight into navigating the prks."

Star-Studded "How-to" Videos
· Joey Fatone and Alfonso Ribeiro, Dads to Princesses - Best friends and both dads to little princesses, Fatone and Ribeiro travel to Walt Disney World Resort on a daddy-daughter vacation and give their real-guy vacation tips.

· Lisa Whelchel and the Facts of Family Travel - Former star of "The Facts of Life," motivational speaker and author, Whelchel reminisces about her favorite trips to Walt Disney World Resort and gives moms the lowdown on how to keep a large family happy on the road.

These never-before-seen videos will live solely on the Walt Disney World Moms Panel, www.disneyworldmoms.com, alongside existing videos from television personality Joan Lunden, actor/comedian Brad Garrett and actress/singer Angela Bassett.

The Moms Panelists also have jumped into the spotlight to create new videos - featuring unique in-park family activities, special surprises and new attractions, to name a few. Here's a sampling:

New Panelist Videos
· "Kris Allen Press Conference" - Whitney and Doug jump behind the velvet rope when Kris Allen makes his historic visit to Walt Disney World Resort.
· "Characters in Flight" - Walt Disney World Moms Panelist Cathy takes her family 400 feet in the air in the newest attraction at Downtown Disney - a giant tethered balloon offers her a breathtaking, 360 degree view of Walt Disney World Resort and more!
· "Sanaa" - Panelists Jackie and Jennifer take their families on a culinary adventure at the newest eatery at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge.

David Cook Takes a Magical Flight

Singer, musician and "American Idol" season seven champion David Cook takes a ride Aug. 17, 2009 aboard the Magic Carpets of Aladdin attraction at the Magic Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Joining Cook on the family vacation to Walt Disney World were his nieces and nephews: Pictured are Gracie (right), age 6 and Marshall (held by Cook), 18 months.

July 27, 2009

Chef Robert Irvine from Food Network's "Dinner Impossible," gets tips from Chef Mickey for his Oct. 25 appearance at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

Chef Robert Irvine from Food Network's "Dinner Impossible," gets tips from Chef Mickey for his Oct. 25 appearance at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.

Chef Robert Irvine from Food Network's "Dinner Impossible," gets tips from Chef Mickey for his Oct. 25 appearance at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. Epcot kitchens turn up the heat for a global tasting experience worthy of every palate Sept. 25-Nov. 8 at the 14th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival at Walt Disney World Resort.

During the six-week, entertainment-packed event, park guests can taste fine cuisine and wines from the top "foodie" cities of the world. Some 250 chefs including Disney chefs and guest chefs from across the country conducting culinary demonstrations and hosting elegant dinners and tasting events. Guest chefs who have graced the festival include Irvine, Tory McPhail of Commander's Palace, Rock Harper of "Hell's Kitchen," plus Jeff Henderson, Todd English, Warren Brown, Mary Meyers, Jamie Deen, Iron Chef Cat Cora and many other culinary stars.

Hip-hop artist Big Boi at the Magic Kingdom

Big Boi (born Antwan Andre Patton) is scheduled to release his first solo album, entitled "Sir Luscious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty" in 2009. In addition to his work with OutKast, the Atlanta-based artist and producer has appeared on tracks by Beyonce, Jay-Z and Missy Elliott. In 2008 he collaborated with the Atlanta Ballet for a series of critically acclaimed performances.. He is visiting the Walt Disney World Resort on vacation this week.

July 12, 2009

CELEBRATING A SOCCER STAR: International Soccer Star Leo Messi

International Soccer Star Leo Messi at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex - July 9, 2009

FC Barcelona soccer star Leo Messi is continuing his celebration of his team's UEFA Champions League title by spending a week at Walt Disney World near Orlando, FL. Messi, one of the sport's biggest stars, is experiencing many of Disney's attractions, including visiting Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex, the leading multi-sport venue in the nation.

At the complex on the eve of the Disney Cup International Youth Soccer tournament, Messi took time out to kick the soccer ball around with a local youth soccer team along with Mickey Mouse. Messi signed autographs and posed for photos with the kids as well as treated them to a demonstration of his coolest soccer tricks.

More than 150 youth boys and girls soccer teams (ages 9-17) from 10 different countries will compete in the 11th annual Disney Cup International Youth Soccer Tournament at Disney, July 14-19. The tournament features teams from Bermuda, Brazil, Canada, Columbia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, England, Guatemala, Honduras and Puerto Rico. The event is one of several youth soccer tournaments at the Disney sports complex, including Disney's Soccer Showcase, which features the most elite high school soccer players in the nation.

New 'American Idol' Kris Allen Celebrates His Crowning Achievement with His Fans at Walt Disney World Resort

Last week, the 23-year-old singer from Conway, Ark., became the newest "American Idol" by garnering the most fan votes in the television series' thrilling Season Eight finale. Moments after his victory, Allen did what dozens of sports celebrities and heroes have done for more than two decades: He looked into a television camera and shouted, "I'm going to Disney World!"

This week, America's newest star lived out his post-finale show pronouncement when he basked in the glow of a victory parade and gala celebration at "The American Idol Experience," the new Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park attraction based on the "American Idol" television show.

Celebrating with Allen Friday at Walt Disney World was his new bride, Katy. The longtime sweethearts were married eight months ago.

Thousands of fans turned out May 29 for Allen's day in the Disney sun, which included a party-filled procession through the theme park and a chance for fans to see the newest "American Idol" amidst the celebratory setting.

In the iconic commercial shot on the Nokia Theater stage in Los Angeles following the May 20 season finale show, Allen not only shouts the famous "I'm Going to Disney World!" line, but his voice also is featured throughout the ad as he performs the famous song, "When You Wish Upon A Star." And with the same immediacy that has made the Disney spot one of the most beloved commercials of all-time, the newest "I'm Going to Disney World!" commercial debuted on television within hours of the "American Idol" finale.

By starring in the Disney commercial, Allen joins a line-up of superstar professional athletes and heroes who have shouted the famous "I'm Going to Disney World" line. He is the second singer ever to star in the Disney commercial in its 23-year history (2008 "American Idol" champion, David Cook, was the first).

Fittingly, Allen made his visit to Walt Disney World as Disney Parks asks guests "What Will You Celebrate?"

Allen's victory on "American Idol" took the country by storm and highlighted Season Eight of the show.

His journey on "Idol" began when he and his brother drove more than eight hours from Arkansas to Louisville, Ky., and then waited another 14 hours to audition. All of Allen's long hours and hard work were rewarded May 20 in the star-studded season finale when he was crowned the newest "American Idol."

"The American Idol Experience" at Walt Disney World Resort - which had a February 2009 grand opening - is the first major theme park attraction in the world based on the popular television series. Walt Disney Imagineering developed the interactive attraction in conjunction with FremantleMedia Enterprises and 19 TV Ltd.

"The American Idol Experience" lets Disney guests experience the glitz and glamour of the "American Idol" television show, whether they are auditioning for a Disney producer, performing on-stage in front of a packed theater or voting for their favorite singer from their audience seats. Attraction performers who receive the most audience votes in the preliminary shows return to star in that evening's grand finale show. In addition to their new-found theme park fame, the top vote-getting guest in the finale show receives "The American Idol Experience" Dream Ticket - which allows an eligible holder to schedule a front-of-the-line audition at a future regional audition for the "American Idol" television show.

The duo was enjoying the theme park prior to their evening performance for the Disney Grad Nite, an annual, in-park celebration for high school seniors.

Panettiere stars on the hit NBC series "Heroes." Perry is a multi-platinum recording artist who hit #1 on the "Billboard" charts with two singles from her latest album, "One Of The Boys." Disney's Hollywood Studios is one of four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort. (Gene Duncan, photographer)

April 10, 2009

Joey Fatone at Tren-D in Downtown Disney

TREN-D GRAN-D OPENING: Television and music personality Joey Fatone carries his daughter Briahna April 10, 2009 through the "Tren-D" store at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. during Friday's Grand Opening festivities for the new fashion boutique.

The store, located at Downtown Disney, blends both vintage and modern designs with stylized Disney characters. Apparel and accessories are featured from designers including Tarina Tarantino, Roxy and Kidada Jones. (Gene Duncan, photographer)

April 1, 2009

SOMETHING'S FISHY ON APRIL FOOLS' DAY!

Comedian Brad Garrett ("Everybody Loves Raymond," "'Til Death") does his best blowfish impression April 1, 2009, alongside two characters from the "Finding Nemo - The Musical" show at Disney's Animal Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. The show is based on the animated Disney-Pixar film "Finding Nemo." Among the show's featured characters are "Bloat," a blowfish (left), who was voiced by Garrett in the feature film, and Nemo (right), a clownfish and star of the film and musical show. Disney's Animal Kingdom is one of four theme parks at the Walt Disney World Resort. (Gene Duncan, photographer)

March 28, 2009

A PERFECT 10: Mickey Mouse warms up with Super Bowl XLIII MVP Santonio Holmes (left) and 1999 National League MVP Chipper Jones (right) as they exchange their #10 jerseys and autographs March 27, 2009 at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Jones, who plays third base for the Atlanta Braves, is currently playing at the complex's Champion Stadium during the Braves' Spring Training season. Holmes, wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers, is training with several of his teammates on the complex's football fields in preparation for the upcoming 2009 NFL season. (Diana Zalucky, photographer)

2008 Olympic Gold Medal-winning gymnast Shawn Johnson strikes a dance pose with Mickey Mouse Feb. 27, 2009 at Disney's Hollywood Studios in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Johnson, 17, is the youngest celebrity to ever compete on ABC's "Dancing with the Stars." Her appearance today is part of "ESPN The Weekend," a special event that continues through March 1, 2009 at the Walt Disney World theme park. Johnson makes her debut on "Dancing with the Stars" when Season 8 of the ABC show premieres Monday, March 9.

February 15, 2009

"The American Idol Experience" World Premiere: Motorcade and Blue Carpet

(Feb. 12, 2009) -- LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - All seven "American Idol" winners and dozens more finalists gathered Thursday night at the Walt Disney World Resort for the world premiere of a groundbreaking attraction that includes all the thrills and suspense that have made "American Idol" into a television and pop culture phenomenon.

"The American Idol Experience" at Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park captures the energy and excitement of the TV series with some park guests auditioning to take the spotlight onstage while other guests cheer them on from the audience, voting for their favorite singer with instant results.

For tonight's grand opening, "American Idol" winners, finalists and celebrities who have performed on the actual "American Idol" set in California came to see the twirling neon signs and multi-layered backdrop of "The American Idol Experience." The 1000-seat venue is the most technologically advanced theater found at Walt Disney World Resort, created by Walt Disney Imagineering and the Hollywood set designer who designed the actual TV show set for "American Idol."

"The American Idol Experience" includes an audition process open to Disney's Hollywood Studios guests 14 and older (audition slots are limited and interested guests are encouraged to arrive early). These guests perform live in front of a Disney's Hollywood Studios casting director for the opportunity to be cast in one of the preliminary theme park shows that same day.

If shown to have that special "star quality" during the multi-step audition process, it's on to performance training, hair and make-up. Then, the lights come up and it's showtime for the singers as they try to impress an audience of theme park guests, plus a panel of three expert judges. Fellow park guests will be able to enjoy the performances just like at a live television taping. Then, audience members vote for their favorite performance using the armrest touchpads, with their votes tallied to determine the top singer.

Performers with the highest votes during the preliminary shows will return for a high-energy, grand finale show that same evening. After their encore performances, the big moment arrives. It's a super-charged, eye-popping scene as audience votes are tallied, the other performers drop off, music builds and the spotlight shines down, amid a blizzard of confetti, on the day's top singer.

The American Idol Experience was developed by Walt Disney Imagineering in conjunction with FremantleMedia Enterprises (FME) and 19 TV Ltd and based on the smash-hit television show "American Idol" - produced by 19 TV Ltd. and FremantleMedia North America (FMNA).

February 3, 2009

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - "Steeler Nation" shifted the victory celebration east from Tampa to Walt Disney World Resort Monday as thousands of black-and-gold-clad, Terrible Towel-twirling fans of the Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers lined Main Street, U.S.A. They came to Magic Kingdom to be part of something that has become an iconic moment of post-Super Bowl celebration - to cheer one of their newest conquering heroes, Super Bowl MVP wide receiver Santonio Holmes, in a victory parade.

Just hours after he and quarterback Ben Roethlisberger hooked up for a surgically precise touchdown pass with 35 seconds remaining to earn Pittsburgh a 27-23 victory over the Arizona Cardinals in Super Bowl XLIII, Holmes was riding high, smiling and waving back from a convertible as he celebrated at Walt Disney World Resort.

Holmes was doing precisely what he said he was going to in the latest episode of the long-running Disney commercial that asks people who have just experienced a milestone, "You are celebrating your (accomplishment) " What are you going to do next?": In chorus with Roethlisberger, Holmes beamed and screamed, "We're going to Disney World!"

At Disney World, a shower of red, white and blue confetti fluttered down on hundreds of similarly colored mouse-eared balloons interspersed with football-shaped balloons in Steelers black and gold. The police escort - six Orange County Sheriff's officers aboard motorcycles leading the procession - added more color with flashing red, white, blue and golden yellow lights.

Mickey Mouse in full game uniform sat next to Holmes in the blue convertible while a group of NFL Youth Football players from Jacksonville, Fla., walked behind holding bouquets of colorful balloons. Goofy in Steelers colors was part of the procession, too, as were Chip 'n' Dale wearing referee stripes.

Holmes earned the MVP honor and the celebratory parade at Walt Disney World by catching nine Roethlisberger passes for 131 yards, including the game-winning 6-yard TD reception with 35 seconds left. Roethlisberger finished with 21 completions in 30 attempts for 256 yards. During Pittsburgh's decisive 78-yard drive in the final 2:37, the pair connected four times for 73 yards as the Steelers earned an unprecedented sixth Super Bowl victory.

The commercial that was shot immediately after the game and aired Monday morning is the milestone 40th of a series that began in 1987 following Super Bowl XXI. The first " I'm going to Disney World" commercial, featuring New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms, was regarded as a groundbreaking concept - a produced national commercial involving a current event, airing on major networks within hours of its conclusion. Holmes and Roethlisberger join a lineup of people from sports and beyond who have celebrated milestone accomplishments in "I'm going to Disney World" commercials.

December 15, 2008

Florida quarterback Tim Tebow holds the two awards -- the Disney Spirit Award (left) and the Maxwell Award (right) he took home from the The Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards, which took place Dec. 11, 2008 at Disney's BoardWalk Resort.

University of Florida quarterback Tim Tebow, whose remarkable humanitarian efforts have captivated college football fans nationwide, was presented the 2008 Disney Spirit Award given annually to college football's most inspirational figure. Tebow was presented with the award during The Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards at the Atlantic Dance Hall at Walt Disney World Resort on Thursday, Dec. 11, 2008. The 18th annual awards show was broadcast live on ESPN. (Preston Mack, photographer)

October 27, 2008

Dancing with the Stars" celebrities Lance Bass and Lacey Schwimmer

CAN I HAVE THIS DANCE?: "Dancing with the Stars" celebrities Lance Bass and Lacey Schwimmer kick up their heels in the Magic Kingdom -- Oct. 23, 2008

Singer and actor Lance Bass (right) and his "Dancing with the Stars" professional dance partner Lacey Schwimmer (left) get into the Halloween spirit and kick up their heels Oct. 23, 2008 in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. As of Oct. 23, 2008, the pair was one of seven couples remaining on the current season of the popular ABC-TV dance competition show.

September 17, 2008

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - When the gold-standard Bocuse d'Or USA culinary cook-off unfolds Sept. 26 and 27 at Epcot in Walt Disney World Resort, TV personality Al Roker will emcee the excitement. When the contest concludes and spatulas rest, culinary great Charlie Trotter, along with other star chefs from around the world, will host a Gala Dinner and Awards ceremony fit for the most discriminating gourmet.

The opening-weekend event of the 13th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, open to park guests, promises to deliver celebrity panache, high kitchen drama and extraordinary culinary moments.

Roker, together with Dana Cowin, editor-in-chef of Food & Wine magazine, will spotlight the action for Epcot guests in the park's World Showplace arena-like setting. There, eight two-person teams of the country's top chefs will turn up the heat in the kitchen with the hope that their culinary creations land them a top spot representing Team USA at the Bocuse d'Or World Cuisine Contest - commonly called the Culinary Olympics - in Lyon, France, Jan. 27-29.

Epcot guests can attend the competition and observe the culinary wizardry. Each of the eight teams will serve up elaborate fish and beef dishes to be judged by a top-chef panel: Thomas Keller, Daniel Boulud, Trotter, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Georges Perrier, Laurent Tourondel, and former Bocuse d'Or USA competitors. Dishes will be judged on excellence in taste, presentation, technical skill and overall kitchen organization.

The competition culminates Sept. 27 with a Gala Dinner and Awards ceremony recognizing the first-, second- and third-place teams. Tickets are still available for the star-studded event featuring gourmet cuisine, live musical entertainment, dancing, a silent auction and a chance to meet and mingle with some the world's top chefs, including the Gala Dinner Chefs, as well as contest founder Paul Bocuse, and the Deans of The French Culinary Institute, Alain Sailhac and Andre Soltner.

Throughout the six-week-long Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, Sept. 26-Nov. 9, guests can sample food and wine from around the world at international marketplaces and specialty dinners, attend seminars and wines schools and meet guest chefs. For more information, call 407/WDW-FEST or visit www.disneyworld.com/food.

September 11, 2008

Stopping by the Big Cheese's 'Office'

Actress Melora Hardin (left) star of NBC's comedy series "The Office," takes time with daughters Rory (age 6, second from left) and Piper (age 3, right) to meet a business suit-clad Mickey Mouse Sept. 7, 2008 at the Magic Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. New episodes of "The Office" return to NBC on Sept. 25, 2008 with a one-hour season premiere. (Matt Stroshane, photographer)

August 29, 2008

Michael Phelps Celebrates Gold at Walt Disney World

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., August 29, 2008 /PRNewswire/ - Direct from the Beijing Games where he won a record eight Gold Medals, world champion swimmer Michael Phelps celebrated his unprecedented achievement with an all-American homecoming parade in his honor at Walt Disney World Resort.

In a star-spangled salute amidst confetti and thousands of flag-waving fans in the Magic Kingdom, Phelps was honored for his record-setting wins and for the spirit in which he captivated the world in his quest for Gold.

The 23-year-old from Baltimore beamed as he rode through the park alongside Mickey Mouse, waving to fans who chanted his name. Magic Kingdom guests joined in "America's Homecoming Parade" for the swimmer who broke records in each event he entered in Beijing.

For Phelps, who also was honored in Disney parades at both Walt Disney World in Florida and Disneyland Park in California following the 2004 Summer Games, it was a sweet homecoming to the United States and to see fans who supported him in his quest for Gold in Beijing.

"I am so happy to celebrate here and see some of the fans who supported me," said Phelps. "It's great to feel so much excitement around the sport of swimming in the U.S. and around the world. To top it all off with a parade at Disney World is just incredible."

During his celebration in the Magic Kingdom, Phelps also took time to meet a group of local swimmers from the central Florida area. The aspiring young swimmers had the chance to talk with Phelps, ask about his record-breaking experiences and see the Gold Medals he won in Beijing.

Phelps' celebration at Walt Disney World is planned to be the next feature on his wildly popular Facebook.com page. Phelps, one of the most popular public figures on the social networking site, has nearly 1.5 million Facebook "fans" who have subscribed to receive his latest news and updates. Phelps said he plans to offer photographs and video of his Walt Disney World visit on his Facebook.com site.

Phelps, who has announced he will train for the 2012 Games, now owns the record for most Gold Medals in a single event (8) and for a career (14).

August 23, 2008

Best of Both Worlds: Hannah Montana's Miley Cyrus to Celebrate 'Sweet 16' Birthday and Honor Youth Volunteers at Disneyland Bash

ANAHEIM, Calif. (August 21, 2008) - When the world's most popular teenager turns "Sweet 16," it's cause to celebrate. And when that teen is Miley Cyrus - star of Disney's "Hannah Montana" - there's no better place to celebrate than at a Disney Park.

To honor the occasion and Miley's philanthropic passion, Disneyland Resort in California has created "Miley's Sweet 16 - Share The Celebration," an unforgettable event for Miley and her fans that also will serve to recognize Youth Service America and help drive awareness of the need for youth volunteerism.

The Hollywood-style bash is planned for Sunday, Oct. 5, from 6 to 11 p.m., with ticket sales limited to 5,000 fans.

For Miley, the birthday bash is a once-in-a-lifetime event and she plans to make new Disney theme park memories during the evening. "I only turn 16 once, so it's going to be an awesome party with my favorite rides, hanging out with friends, fireworks and more," she said. "I'll even get to sing a couple songs."

The evening will celebrate Miley's career as a Hollywood Records solo musical artist and as the "secret pop star" she portrays on the wildly popular Disney Channel series, "Hannah Montana."

Miley's Sweet 16 at Disneyland will feature a medley of party elements, large and small, that will allow guests to join in the celebration of Miley's magical milestone. Special Party Zones will highlight the music and fun of Miley and Hannah Montana with themed activities and entertainment. Some of Miley's favorite attractions will be open in each Party Zone, and the party will end with a bang as fireworks fill the Disneyland sky.

Sharing the Celebration with Youth Service America

In addition to all the birthday fun, Miley's Sweet 16 will shine a spotlight on Youth Service America, an organization that seeks to improve communities by increasing the number and diversity of young people, ages 5 to 25, serving as volunteers. (For more information, visit www.YSA.org.)

In keeping with Miley's passion for youth volunteerism, Disney Parks will make a significant contribution to Youth Service America.

With the organization's involvement in "Miley's Sweet 16 - Share The Celebration," Miley said she hopes that other young Americans will be encouraged to volunteer in their own hometowns.

"The best part of the party is we're going to recognize some really cool kids from Youth Service America who are giving back to their community," she said. "That's so awesome because I think it's really important for kids like us to volunteer."

For More Party Information

For ongoing information about "Miley's Sweet 16 - Share The Celebration" party at Disneyland Park in California, as well as details on how to obtain tickets, fans may go to www.disneyparks.com/miley for details.

August 18, 2008

Actress and author Brooke Shields visits Walt Disney World with her family

Actress and best-selling author Brooke Shields, star of the fashion-themed, NBC television series "Lipstick Jungle," poses Aug. 17, 2008 with an evening gown-clad Minnie Mouse and daughters Grier, age 2 (left), and Rowan, age 5 (right), at the Magic Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. "Lipstick Jungle" returns for its second season on Sept. 24, 2008. Shields also is the author of a new children's book, "Welcome To Your World, Baby." The book, which focuses on the joys of sisterhood, was inspired by her two young daughters. Shields and her family are on vacation at the Walt Disney World Resort.

Brooke Shields poses with a jungle explorer-themed Goofy and husband, writer/producer Chris Henchy (right) and daughters Grier, age 2 (left), and Rowan, age 5 (second from right), at the Magic Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.

August 16, 2008

MORE DREAMING IN 2009: Famed television and radio entertainer Steve Harvey poses with Mickey and Minnie Mouse prior to the 2008 Bud Billiken Parade and Picnic in Chicago. Mickey and Minnie joined Harvey as he announced plans for next year's "Disney Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey" -- a motivational event for teens which will take place at Walt Disney World in Florida in early 2009. Harvey said nominations for the 2009 "Disney Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey" are available at his Web site: www.steveharvey.com/disneysdreamersacademy.

Jacquez Walker (left), a Chicago-area student from Kelvyn High School, shared the spotlight with famed television and radio entertainer Steve Harvey (right) prior to the 2008 Bud Billiken Parade and Picnic in Chicago. During the parade, Walker shared the Grand Marshal honor with Mickey and Minnie Mouse in recognition of his selection to the inaugural "Disney's Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey.